This project will assess the dimensional stability, primarily shrinkage, of at least 12 prebagged grouts. At least six different standardized shrinkage tests, along with nonstandardized laboratory tests, will be completed to fully assess the real-world shrinkage behavior on the time continuum from mixing through fully cured. Thermal expansion will also be assessed. New shrinkage test methods that appropriately report the parameters of interest to the bridge construction sector may be suggested.

Goals:

The key project objective is to evaluate the dimensional stability, primarily shrinkage, of prebagged grout materials, which may be used in field-cast applications connecting Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems (PBES) components. The variety of existing test methods or assessing these materials have been demonstrated to provide a range of results that are not indicative of real-world performance. This project will provide a rational assessment of real-world performance of these materials and may suggest modifications to standardized test methods.

Deliverables from this project will raise awareness of the challenges inherent in the use of "nonshrink" grouts and will also propose methods to understand and address the shrinkage. In doing so, it the research will facilitate the appropriate use of these grouts when deployed in field-cast connections between prefabricated bridge elements.